June 24, 2025 (Astoria, NY)– Obituary: Grandmaster Moonsung Lee (August 7, 1939 – June 23, 2025). It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Taekwondo Grandmaster MoonSung Lee, who departed this life on June 23, 2025, in Plainview, New York, at the age of 85. Grandmaster Lee was a towering figure in the global Taekwondo community, leaving behind a profound legacy of unwavering discipline, tireless dedication, and an enduring influence on countless lives.
Born on August 7, 1939, MoonSung Lee began his Taekwondo journey in Seoul, South Korea, demonstrating an extraordinary natural talent and an unyielding commitment to the martial art from a young age. His relentless training and profound understanding of Taekwondo’s principles led him to achieve the revered title of Grandmaster.
Grandmaster Lee immigrated to the United States, where he established the esteemed Lee’s Taekwondo Academy. Through his academy, he not only imparted the physical techniques of Taekwondo but also its rich philosophy, emphasizing the core tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. He was a mentor who fostered not just physical prowess but also character, respect, and community involvement in all his students.
In 1972, Grandmaster Lee opened the “Moon S. Lee TaeKwonDo Institute” in Astoria, NY—a humble storefront beneath the train tracks on 31st Street near Astoria Boulevard. What began as a modest school quickly became a cornerstone for martial arts excellence and personal development in the area. Today, the school has evolved into what we now know as Strong Martial Arts.
Grandmaster Lee’s remarkable accomplishments include:
- Pioneering Taekwondo in the United States: He was instrumental in introducing and popularizing Taekwondo in the U.S., establishing a strong foundation for its growth.
- Founding Lee’s Taekwondo Academy: His academy served as a cornerstone for martial arts education, shaping generations of students with its rigorous training and philosophical guidance.
- Influencing Global Taekwondo: Through his dedication and expertise, he contributed significantly to the development and standardization of Taekwondo worldwide.
- Mentoring Thousands: He personally trained and mentored countless students, many of whom went on to become successful martial artists and respected individuals in their communities.
- Embodying Taekwondo Principles: Grandmaster Lee lived by the tenets of Taekwondo, serving as an inspiring example of discipline, integrity, and an indomitable spirit.
- 9th Degree Taekwondo Grandmaster
- US Taekwondo Grandmaster’s Society Founding Member
Grandmaster Lee’s quiet strength, gentle demeanor, and unwavering principles inspired generations. He taught that true mastery lies not just in breaking boards, but in building lives and fostering positive character.
He is survived by his loving family and a vast extended family of students, colleagues, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Wake Service:
Thursday, June 26, 2025
7:00 p.m.
Promise Church
130-30 31st Ave., College Point, NY 11354
Burial Service:
Friday, June 27, 2025
10:00 a.m.
Pinelawn Cemetery
2030 Wellwood Ave., Farmingdale, NY 11735
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Grandmaster Lee’s name to a charity or organization that reflects his lifelong commitment to the martial arts and its values.
Grandmaster MoonSung Lee’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit, his teachings, and his enduring legacy will continue to resonate within the Taekwondo community and beyond for generations to come. He has finished his final, triumphant form.
He leaves behind his wife, Anna, his three children: Charles, Grace, and James and his 5 grandchildren: Haley, Billy Jr., Madelyn, Allison, and Jacob, and fur child, Sonny
May he rest in peace.
